With little fanfare, Mama’s Boy Southern Table and Refuge, the newest addition to the SONO food scene is slowly opening its doors. Based on traditional Southern hospitality and cuisine, the restaurant will deliver the comfort food of the south combined with a relaxed atmosphere. As the website states, “Mama’s Boy is putting the “South” in South Norwalk.”

The interior has been completely redesigned. Using woods and material from an old water tower from Florence, South Carolina, owners Greer Fredericks and Ami Dorel created a warm environment from top to bottom. The lighting is soft and inviting, the music gives a perfect background through various genres and the service is straight from Charleston, friendly and incredibly helpful. Upon entering you can choose a seat at the long bar or one of the tables along the wall with a long comfortable banquette. In the rear is a second dining area that is guarded by two windows that were reclaimed from Al Capone’s summer residence. This dining area features a traditional “mirror wall,” you have to see it to completely understand and appreciate.

Executive Chef Scott Ostrander is overseeing the kitchen and he brings his southern roots and recipes to SONO, plus his experience cooking for Presidents Bush (both) and Clinton. Chef Ostrander is sourcing many of his ingredients locally, to complement many that are arriving straight from South Carolina. The menu contains traditional choices, including Fried Oysters, She Crab Soup, Shrimp & Grits, Fried Chicken & Waffles and, of course, Fried Catfish. A quick taste of the chicken immediately placed this dish on the Must Have list. Leave room for desserts, as the kitchen is currently creating some outstanding Banana Pudding Crème Brulée and Pecan Cheesecake.

This will be a great addition to SONO.

Stay tuned as CTbites return to Mama’s Boy in a few weeks for a complete review.